Sports

Senior student-athletes sign to continue athletic careers in college

A group of seniors on their signing day in November 2021.

Baxter Petersen, Staff Writer
May 9, 2022

The Class of 2022 has a total of 28 student-athletes who signed to play a sport at the next level in college. The college process is stressful and difficult for every student, but it can be even more complicated when athletic recruiting is involved. To catch the eye of a college scout, for example, students need to publicize their name and showcase their talent.

“To get our name out there, we create highlight videos or send full games by email and send constant updates,” senior volleyball player Avery Brown said.

For senior volleyball player Rose Porter, she made an impact on her future head coach right away in a slightly embarrassing way.

“The very first play [Iona’s head coach] saw was me getting hit directly in the middle of my face with the ball and attempting to hold back my tears. Although I did not make the prettiest first impression, it all ended up working out,” she said.

Another step in the recruitment process is to visit the campus and meet coaches face-to-face.

“I went to visit Birmingham Southern because I heard about their strong tennis program,” senior tennis player Meg Griffin said. “I met the coach and the team on my tour and they were all very nice. She invited me to an overnight hit with the team and I really enjoyed it.”

Students and coaches stay in constant contact with each other throughout their senior year until it’s finally time to make a decision and sign their National Letter of Intent on the dotted line. As with every student regardless of whether or not they want to play a sport in college, choosing the right school is a personal decision based on a variety of factors for each individual and their family.

“I chose Iona because of the amazing other girls on the team, the great education the school could offer me, and because of the coaches and their plan to get me to become the best player and person I can be,” Porter said.

Golden Lions will be scattered across the country next year as they continue representing St. Pius X in the best way possible. Below is a complete list of all signees.